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Liam OBrien

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About the project

I have been selected to represent Australia at the World University Games this August in Taiwan, as I am enrolled in UQ Honours, studying Cancer Immunology. My project is centred around developing a melanoma vaccine in a pre-clinical mouse model. Unfortunately, this means I must spend long hours in the lab performing operations on mice, before training at night - this leaves little time for paid work. I get by with help from my parents, a bit of javelin coaching, and demolition/asbestos labour on weekends and holidays.
The Australian World University Games team has a levy of $4000. This covers airfares, competition fees and accommodation while in Taiwan. Sadly, my bank balance rarely exceeds $1000, meaning I definitely need some help to get over there and compete. Athletics in Australia isn't a huge sport, and I have always paid to throw javelins. I want to not only do well, but help grow the sport.
If I make it to the World University Games, I plan to use it as a springboard towards the 2018 Commonwealth Games to be held on the Gold Coast. Also, my performances this year have put me in a very competitive position to do well at these games and potentially win a medal for Australia.